Look Out for Signs of Thyroid Disorder in Children

Thyroid is an important gland in the human body which is located at the front side of the neck below the Adam’s apple and it is responsible for all the metabolic as well as chemical processes that take place in organs, cells and tissues. Thus considering its importance, it can be said that if there is any disorder in thyroid gland, it will have effect on overall functioning of the body.

There are mainly two types of thyroid disorders- when there is excess production of the thyroid hormone or when the gland becomes overactive, the condition is known as hyperthyroidism whereas when the production of the hormone is less or when the gland is underactive, the condition is known as hypothyroidism.

Though thyroid diseases are mainly found in adult but children of all ages including infants can also be affected by thyroid disorders. If left untreated, thyroid diseases can affect the overall growth and function of the children and can also lead to problems like development delays, intellectual disability and others.

Though the symptoms of thyroid disorder may be similar in adults and children but it is important to be more cautious while looking for the symptoms in children. Below given are some of the major symptoms and signs to check for thyroid disorder in infants and teens.

Symptoms and Signs of Thyroid Disorder in Infants

The thyroid disorder severity in infants depends as to how well the thyroid gland is working.

During the First Few Months after the Baby is Born Signs will include

Lack in appetite

Breathing problem

Choking while nursing

Hoarse cry

Jaundice

Constipation

Not gaining weight

Enlarged belly

Mottled skin which may feel cold

Swollen feet, hands and genitals

Sluggishness

After Initial Few Months, the Signs may also include the following

Stunted growth

Scaly and dry skin

Nail and hair growth to be poor

Delayed appearance of teeth

Shorter toes and fingers

Swollen tongue

Large and puffy head

Symptoms and Signs of Thyroid Disorder in Teens and other Children

Some of the major signs that may indicate towards thyroid issues in teens and other children include the following:

Change in behavior and performance at school

Persistent pain in belly

Goiter and lethargy

Delayed sexual development and physical growth

Delayed onset of puberty

Weight gain

Besides the above listed there are other symptoms of thyroid disorder that may be seen in adults as well as children.

General Signs of Hyperthyroidism

Fats heartbeat

Increased appetite and weight gain

Large size of thyroid

Trouble in concentrating

Trembling hands

Loose stool and fainting

Bulged eyes with wide eyes stare

Sleep issues and sweating

Emotional liability

Short attention span

High blood pressure

General Signs of Hypothyroidism

Cold intolerance

Delayed bone age

Headache

Decreased energy

Muscle soreness

Thus if you observe the above given symptoms in your child then it is important to consult the physician to know if the thyroid of the child is functioning properly or not. A pediatric endocrinologist will help you to diagnose the problem.